Uncertainty slows new projects and renovations

(December 2025) | PGC was founded in 2013 by a group of leading Polish ceramic and bathroom equipment distributors in response to the market challenges faced by independent distributors. By combining purchasing power, sharing know-how and leveraging its unconventional corporate structure, PGC has established itself as one of the key players in the sector. We spoke to Chairman Seweryn Kartkowski about the company and the current state of Poland’s distribution system.

What kind of products do you market?

PGC’s members distribute products from many of the world’s most prestigious manufacturers through dozens of showrooms. We offer a full range of ceramic tiles, terrace tiles, ceramic sanitaryware, bathroom fittings and accessories. Alongside well-known global brands, we also market our own private label collections.

How is your distribution network structured?

Over the years, PGC has established itself as the largest purchasing group in Poland’s ceramic and bathroom equipment sector, bringing together more than a dozen leading regional partners. Our distribution network consists of independent partner companies with showrooms and sales outlets throughout Poland and Slovakia. Together we form a unified purchasing and distribution platform that combines local expertise with the benefits of centralised purchasing and strategic partnerships. We serve a wide range of customers, from private homeowners to large developers and architects. PGC also operates a wholesale network and is currently developing its export business.

What advantages does this type of organisation offer?

Our structure combines the flexibility and customer focus of local businesses with the scale and efficiency of a large group. This allows us to negotiate better terms, share market insights, invest in innovation and respond quickly to customer needs. PGC also functions as a central logistics hub, ensuring that products are available immediately and relieving our partners of the need to maintain large inventories.

What is the current state of Poland’s distribution system and what are the main challenges you face?

The Polish distribution landscape is highly competitive and fragmented, marked by rising operating costs, import pressures and logistical challenges. The war in Ukraine, high credit costs and inflation have fuelled financial insecurity, making many potential buyers reluctant to undertake major home purchases or renovations. This climate of caution has a direct impact on demand for our products and remains one of the most serious challenges facing the ceramic and construction sectors as a whole.

What differences do you see between Italian ceramic tiles and those from other countries?

Italian tiles are widely regarded as leaders in design and innovation, renowned for their aesthetics, surface finishes and cutting-edge production technologies. However, Polish manufacturers are rapidly closing the gap, offering high-quality alternatives with shorter lead times and more competitive prices.

What is the current state of the Polish property market?

After a period of rapid expansion, the market has now stabilised. Demand remains strong in major cities, but high interest rates and economic uncertainty have dampened buyer activity. At the same time, supply continues to rise. Overall, the outlook remains uncertain and the future may still hold surprises, but it is clear that buyers are becoming more cautious and selective, largely because of high credit costs and general economic uncertainty.

Given the current trends in the Polish property market, what are the prospects for the ceramic industry and what distribution strategies are you pursuing?

The ceramic industry is facing a number of challenges, including weaker demand caused by high costs, growing consumer uncertainty and a surge of cheap imports from countries such as India. On top of that, new EU regulations are placing further pressure on producers. In this context, our strategy is to remain flexible, focus on proven, competitive products, support our partners and protect margins through an efficient distribution system and strong private label offerings.

What are your expectations for the future of your sector?

Given the current geopolitical climate, it’s difficult to make firm predictions. What is certain, however, is that only companies capable of adapting quickly, managing risk and delivering real value to customers will maintain their positions. At PGC, we will continue to strengthen partnerships within the group, expand our competitive private label ranges, streamline logistics and provide our network with tools that allow us to respond rapidly to real market needs.